by Caroline Brooke (Editor), Caroline Brooke (Editor), Ken Wilson (Designer), Peter Aughton (Author)
This beautifully illustrated book gives a vivid account of life on board the ENDEAVOUR and its epic journey into the unknown between 1768 and 1771. Captain James Cook's voyage resulted in the mapping of New Zealand and the east coast of Australia. According to the British government - who wished to deceive the world as to its true purpose - it was merely a scientific expedition to observe the transit of the planet Venus across the Sun, a measurement that could help establish the scale of the universe itself. The real purpose was to find Terra Australis. Peter Aughton's narrative brings to life the main characters. The reader feels as if he is with Cook, Joseph Banks and his sailors as their ship encounters storm, tempest and the delights of South Sea Islands.
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 256
Edition: First Edition
Publisher: Cassell Publishing Ltd.
Published: 13 Jun 2002
ISBN 10: 0304362360
ISBN 13: 9780304362363
Book Overview: Peter Aughton's swift-moving narrative clearly describes this 18th century expedition, which is unrivalled in terms of scientific and artistic endeavour, and includes extracts from the sailors' journals. It is generously illustrated with original maps, paintings and line drawings created during the voyage. Aughton's expertise as a scientist and storyteller captures the importance and excitement of the scientific enterprises that the ENDEAVOUR undertook.